Chapter 2

By the time the water stops, I've regained my composure. The folder is locked back in the drawer, my face displaying the docile smile he knows so well.

Adrian emerges, toweling his hair, settling naturally beside me with his arm draped over the sofa back. "Figured out where you want to go for the honeymoon?" he asks, picking up his tablet to browse destinations.

"You decide," I say, my body stiffening slightly at his touch.

This gesture that once made me feel secure now only suffocates me. The tablet's glow illuminates his face, and I can see the light flickering in his eyes. Is it anticipation for our future? Or is it because he just sneaked a text to Chloe in the bathroom?

I clench my fists, nails digging deep into my palms.

Hold on, Sienna. Just a few more weeks.

As Adrian enthusiastically shows me overwater bungalows in Tahiti, my phone screen lights up silently. A new message from an unknown number:

"The Resurrection Project has received your confirmation. New identity 'Elena' is ready. Within 48 hours, you will receive preliminary action guidelines. Good luck."

I turn off the screen, my heart pounding wildly in my chest.

Adrian, our wedding will be the worst nightmare of your life.

The next day, I act as if nothing has happened, accompanying Adrian to the bridal boutique for fittings.

The fifty-thousand-dollar custom wedding gown fits my body perfectly. Adrian stands behind me, hands on my shoulders, his eyes full of admiration.

"You're breathtakingly beautiful, Sienna." His voice is low and full of affection.

I force myself to conjure a happy smile, though my fingertips secretly dig into my palms.

Just last night, I received the first package from the "Rebirth Agency." Inside were new identity documents, a ticket to Zurich, and Swiss bank account information. Now those items are safely locked in my studio drawer.

"Mr. Adrian is so thoughtful," the boutique manager gushes nearby. "He specifically instructed us to use the softest lining."

Adrian gently kisses the top of my head. "My bride deserves the best."

My stomach convulses. Just three hours ago, I watched him and Chloe walk together into an apartment building near Central Park.

"I need to use the restroom," I say softly, needing to escape this space filled with lies.

In the marble bathroom stall, I lock the door and take several deep breaths. My phone vibrates. A message from Chloe.

"Sienna, is your wedding invitation design ready? So excited to see it! I've been so tired lately, but Adrian says he'll take care of me and the baby."

Followed by a cute emoji.

I stare at the message, my blood seeming to freeze instantly. How dare she? How dare she provoke me so brazenly?

I type a reply: "Don't worry, the invitations are beautiful. Rest well, don't stress about our affairs."

After hitting send, I lean against the door, eyes closed. Twenty-three days left. I just need to hold on for twenty-three more days.

"Sienna? Are you okay?" Adrian's voice comes from outside, concerned.

I quickly compose my expression and open the door. "I'm fine, the dress is just a bit tight."

He studies my face carefully, those deep eyes seemingly able to see through everything. "You've been a bit distracted lately, darling. Is the wedding pressure getting to you?"

I almost laugh out loud. Pressure? No, Adrian. It's the cold clarity that comes from discovering my life is built on lies.

"Just a little tired," I say, taking his arm and feeling his muscles tense momentarily. "Let's go home."